Helmets and protective gear
On a motorcycle your gear is your protection. A helmet is required by law for riders and passengers in every state, and it must meet an approved standard. Jackets, gloves, pants and boots are not always required by law, but they greatly reduce injuries in a fall.
This page explains how to tell if a helmet is legal, how it should fit, and what other gear to choose. Some states add extra rules for learners, such as Victoria's high-visibility vest.
By the end of this topic you can
- You can check a helmet carries an approved standard mark.
- You can fit and fasten a helmet correctly.
- You can choose protective clothing for every part of your body.
- You can decide when a helmet needs replacing.
What you need to know and understand
- Approved helmet standards in Australian states include AS 1698, AS/NZS 1698, UN ECE 22.05 and UN ECE 22.06.
- The helmet must carry a label, mark or sticker showing it meets the standard, often on the chin strap.
- Both the rider and any passenger must wear an approved helmet that is fastened.
- Victorian learner riders must also wear an approved high-visibility vest or jacket.
- Rules on other protective clothing vary by state; gloves, jacket, pants and boots are strongly advised everywhere.
- Some states have dates or revision rules for certain ECE helmets, for example WA, so check your state road authority.
Is my helmet legal?
Look for a compliance mark for one of the approved standards. Without it, the helmet may not be legal to use on the road, even if it looks good. Buy from a reputable seller so you know the helmet is genuine and has not been dropped or damaged. A second-hand helmet can hide damage you cannot see.
Fit, fastening and care
- Choose a size that fits snugly all round, with no pressure points.
- Put it on and fasten the strap so only a finger or two fits under your chin.
- Try to roll it forward off your head. It should not come off.
- Keep the visor clean and scratch-free, and use a clear visor at night.
- Replace the helmet after any crash or hard knock, even if it looks fine.
Covering the rest of you
Skin and bones need protection too. Choose gear made for motorcycling, with abrasion-resistant material and impact protectors. Bright colours or reflective panels help other road users see you.
- Gloves: full-finger motorcycle gloves protect hands that hit the ground first.
- Jacket: motorcycle leather or textile with shoulder, elbow and back armour.
- Pants: motorcycle jeans or pants with knee and hip protection.
- Boots: sturdy boots that cover your ankles.
- Hot weather: vented gear is safer than riding in a T-shirt.
Common mistakes
- Riding with the chin strap undone. An unfastened helmet can come off in a crash.
- Buying a helmet without checking for a compliance mark.
- Keeping a helmet after it has been dropped hard or crashed.
- Riding in shorts and trainers on hot days.
Test yourself: Helmets and protective gear
Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.
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Sources: Queensland Government motorcycle safety gear and motorcycle road rules pages (qld.gov.au); SA My Licence motorcycle helmets page (mylicence.sa.gov.au); Transport for NSW Motorcycle Rider Handbook; WA Road Safety Commission motorcycle helmets and gear; Transport Victoria motorcycle licence and learner permit pages (transport.vic.gov.au). Independent guide, not affiliated with any licensing agency. Always check the latest official rules with your state or territory road authority.